Flamengo, the Brazilian football club, is hoping to bring back midfielder Lucas Paqueta from West Ham, beating out their rival Botafogo for the star player's signature. The 27-year-old, who started his career with Flamengo, desires a return to his former team and will have a say in any potential deal next month. Botafogo is also interested in signing Paqueta, and has even offered West Ham their exciting 23-year-old striker Igor Jesus in a possible swap deal. The departure of Paqueta, coupled with injuries to key players like Michail Antonio, has left West Ham in search of both a replacement midfielder and a new striker. Meanwhile, West Ham's Premier League rivals, Sevilla, are hoping to secure a win against Bournemouth and climb up the league table, while still holding out hope for Antonio's return in the future.
Lucas Paqueta: Flamengo and Botafogo Vie for His Return
Background:
Lucas Paqueta, a 27-year-old Brazilian midfielder, began his professional career with Flamengo in 2016. After a successful stint with the club, where he won the Campeonato Carioca and was named the league's best player in 2017, Paqueta moved to AC Milan in 2019. He subsequently joined West Ham United in 2020.
Return to Flamengo:
Flamengo is reportedly hoping to bring Paqueta back to the club next month. The player himself is keen on a return to his former team, where he spent three seasons and left a lasting legacy. The club's president, Rodolfo Landim, recently stated that they are "working hard" to secure Paqueta's return.
Competition from Botafogo:
Flamengo's rival club, Botafogo, is also interested in signing Paqueta. Botafogo has even offered West Ham a potential swap deal involving their 23-year-old striker, Igor Jesus. However, it is believed that Flamengo remains the frontrunner in the race for Paqueta's signature.
West Ham's Situation:
West Ham are in need of a replacement midfielder due to the departure of Paqueta and injuries to key players such as Michail Antonio. The club is reportedly open to selling Paqueta if they can secure a suitable replacement. They have also been linked with a move for Sevilla's Bryan Gil and Nice's Youcef Atal.
Sevilla's Pursuit:
Meanwhile, Sevilla are hoping to strengthen their midfield with the addition of Paqueta. The Spanish club is currently 13th in the La Liga standings and is looking to climb up the table with a win against Bournemouth this weekend. Sevilla also remains hopeful of Antonio's return from injury in the future.
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